Q:  When I recently left my 20-year tenure at a respected entertainment company, I thought my next career move was going to be pursuing a similar position at a similar corporation. However, upon evaluating what professionally interests and inspires me, I realize my role as a mentor has always been enormously satisfying. Therefore, I now think I want a position in the not-for-profit sector or in higher education where I am in direct contact with those seeking direction to build and/or change careers.

Now that I want to change my professional sector, I need to establish myself within the new one. My current professional networks are well connected in the entertainment industry, but I do have few contacts outside of these. What ideas do you have about establishing a path into the not-for-profit sector?

A:  Particularly in a challenging economy, those most engaged by their work are the most likely to succeed, so it is great you evaluated your career to figure out what gives you the most satisfaction in a position. So much of success lies in not only identifying both your strengths and passions but also in being able to combine them in a professional role.

Because you left your most recent employer in good standing, start by leveraging your current contacts even if they are not directly employed in the not-for-profit or higher education sectors. Work with their direct referrals first.  Because they already know your work and your integrity, their referrals are likely to have some weight.  From there, build your network. Start with a list of persons who can serve as credible references for your professional life. From there, work outward to a group of about 12 or 15 persons on whom you can rely for unbiased, thoughtful advice. Think of this process as though you are establishing your own committee of advisors.

Also contact organizations that specialize in placing senior corporate leaders in exciting mission-driven roles.  Research and identify organizations like the Independent Education Consulting Association which provides, among other things, students and their families with certified college placement assistance.  These kinds of organizations can give you ideas about how to proceed and possible avenues to pursue in their fields.  There are also a number of journals and listservs with mission-driven postings.

Finally, think about accessing the colleges, universities and online learning institutions close to where you live. Any academic community will come with its own networks, referral sources and career options. As you conduct this exploration, explore volunteer options within organizations that interest you. Junior colleges, high schools and even universities sponsor or participate in mentoring activities that may interest you. By immersing yourself in the environment where you ultimately want to work, you increase your odds of locating your perfect role.

Contact Karen Alphonse at Karena@execSearches.com or visit ExecSearches.com for more information about our career coaching services.

ExecSearches.com is a job board for nonprofit job seekers interested in fundraising, management and executive nonprofit jobs.

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Last updated on October 15th, 2012 at 05:08 pm